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For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth

Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.

Invested in the Drama

I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Characters

More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.

Realistic Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable